[Botany • 2024] Coelogyne tripurensis • Taxonomy of Coelogyne section Fuliginosae (Orchidaceae): New Species, Notes, Resurrections and Typifications

Coelogyne tripurensis  

in Adit et Kumar, 2024. 

DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.668.1.5

 

Abstract

Coelogyne tripurensis is described here as a species new to science. This epiphytic orchid was discovered from the moist broadleaf forests of Jampui Hills in Tripura, North-East India situated at the westernmost fringe of Indo-Myanmar Biodiversity Hotspot. Evidences to delineate the newly described species and its significant differences from closely related taxa have been provided. We discuss the resurrection of C. fuliginosa, C. leungiana and C. pallens as distinct species. Additionally, lectotypification of C. chrysotropis, C. ovalis and C. pallens, and neotypification of C. fuliginosa is presented. We also provide historical evidence for the range extension of C. phitamii in Thailand. An identification key for the taxonomically challenging Coelogyne section Fuliginosae which consists of nine species is provided along with detailed nomenclatural notes on each species as a revision of the section.

 Flora of Tripura, Indo-Myanmar Biodiversity Hotspot, nomenclature, North-East India, South and South-East Asia, taxonomic revision, Monocots

Arjun Adit and Pankaj Kumar. 2024. Taxonomy of Coelogyne section Fuliginosae (Orchidaceae): New Species, Notes, Resurrections and Typifications.  Phytotaxa. 668(1); 81-98. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.668.1.5

Researchgate.net/profile/Arjun-Adit/research

[Herpetology • 2024] The Second Specimen of the Ghost Leaf-Frog Phrynomedusa fimbriata Miranda-Ribeiro, 1923 (Hylidae: Phyllomedusinae) from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest

Phrynomedusa fimbriata Miranda-Ribeiro, 1923

in Baêta et Pombal, 2024. 

DOI: 10.1643/h2023063 

 x.com/IchsAndHerps

Abstract

Leaf-frogs of the genus Phrynomedusa are rare phyllomedusine species known from a limited number of localities in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest, most of them known only from its small type series. Phrynomedusa fimbriata is known only from the holotype, a female collected in 1898. Despite subsequent efforts, no additional specimens have been collected or registered since this date, which led to the inclusion of P. fimbriata in the list of extinct taxa in the official Brazilian Red List. While examining the specimens deposited in the herpetological collection of the Museu de Zoologia da Universidade de São Paulo, Brazil, we discovered a second specimen of P. fimbriata, an adult male collected in the “Serra do Araraquara,” state of Paraná, Brazil, previously identified as Phrynomedusa appendiculata. Herein, we updated the diagnosis of P. fimbriata to include a description of an adult male and revised the doubtful voucher specimens identified as P. fimbriata and P. appendiculata in the herpetological collections outside of Brazil. In addition, we provide a new locality record of P. appendiculata in the state of São Paulo, Brazil.

Délio Baêta and José P. Pombal Jr. 2024. The Second Specimen of the Ghost Leaf-Frog Phrynomedusa fimbriata Miranda-Ribeiro, 1923 from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest (Hylidae, Phyllomedusinae). Ichthyology & Herpetology. 112(3); 418-428. DOI: doi.org/10.1643/h2023063

  x.com/IchsAndHerps/status/1846274485714145648

[Botany • 2024] Ceratozamia guatemalensis (Zamiaceae) • A New cycad Species from Mesoamerica

Ceratozamia guatemalensis  

in Pérez-Farrera, Díaz-Jiménez, Quezada, Marroquín-Tintí, Delgado Montejo, Mendoza-Montejo et Gutiérrez-Ortega, 2024.

DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.668.1.4 

 facebook.com/MigueAngelPerezFarrera

 

Abstract

Ceratozamia guatemalensis, a new cycad species from the Sierra de los Cuchumatanes, Huehuetenango, Guatemala, is described and compared with the geographically proximal congeners C. vovidesii and C. matudae, with which C. guatemalensis has been historically confused based on their pendulous seed cones, a rare trait in the genus. Nonetheless, a recent phylogenetic study suggests that C. guatemalensis and C. vovidesii are sister species, while C. matudae belongs to distant clade. The new taxon is easily distinguishable from both C. vovidesii and C. matudae by qualitative and quantitative traits based on vegetative and reproductive structures. Remarkably, C. guatemalensis is characterized by having significant morphometric differences from the other two species, such as the wider median leaflets and wider leaflet articulations, and qualitative traits such as the seed cones of green color. The description of C. guatemalensis represents the recognition of the first endemic Ceratozamia species from Guatemala. It should be considered Critically Endangered (CR) due to limited populations and the ongoing destruction of its habitat.

endangered species, Guatemalan Flora, Quercus-Pinus forest, morphological variation, species complex, Gymnosperms

Ceratozamia guatemalensis

Miguel Angel Pérez-Farrera, Pedro Díaz-Jiménez, Maura L. Quezada, Andrea Marroquín-Tintí, Héctor M. Delgado Montejo, Sandy A. Mendoza-Montejo and José Said Gutiérrez-Ortega. 2024. Ceratozamia guatemalensis (Zamiaceae): A New cycad Species from Mesoamerica. Phytotaxa. 668(1); 63-80. DOI: doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.668.1.4

 Researchgate.net/publication/384806807_Ceratozamia_guatemalensis_A_new_species_from_Mesoamerica

  facebook.com/MigueAngelPerezFarrera/posts/10161910474497463

  facebook.com/Unicach/posts/938000318348445

[Botany • 2024] Alysicarpus littoralis (Fabaceae: Desmodieae) • A New Species from southern Thailand

 

Alysicarpus littoralis Satthaphorn & Leerat., 

in Satthaphorn et Leeratiwong. 2024. 

ถั่วลิสงนาสมุย  ||  www.QSBG.or.th/journal

 

Abstract

Alysicarpus littoralis Satthaphorn & Leerat. (Fabaceae, Desmodieae), a species confined to Samui Island, Surat Thani province, southern Thailand, is described and illustrated as a species new to science. Initially identified as A. vaginalis (L.) DC., the re-examination of morphological characters revealed distinctions of A. littoralis such as the length of inflorescence internode, length of calyx lobes, the colour of corolla and the type of pods at maturity. The newly proposed species is sometimes similar to A. monilifer (L.) DC. And A. ovalifolius (Schumach.) J. Léonard as it exhibits moniliform pods and lax inflorescence, respectively. The conservation status of the new species is assessed as Critically Endangered (CR, B2(bii+ciii)) following IUCN conservation guidelines since populations are surrounded by human disturbances. A morphological description, line drawing and updated key to species of Alysicarpus in Thailand are presented.

Keywords: coastal area, Desmodieae, Papilionoideae, Samui Island, Surat Thani

Line drawings of Alysicarpus littoralis:
 A. habit with inflorescences and infructescences; B. flowers; C. calyx; D. standard; E. wing petal; F. keel petal; G. diadelphous stamens; H. pistil; I. moniliform pod; J. article with reticulation (side view of an article); K. septum between articles (top view of an article); L. seed.

Drawn by J. Satthaphorn from the dried specimen, Leeratiwong 21-1634.

Alysicarpus littoralis:
 A. habit; B. inflorescence with two-tone-coloured corolla; C. close-up flowers; D. moniliform pods.

Photos by C. Leeratiwong.

 Alysicarpus littoralis Satthaphorn & Leerat., sp. nov.

 Type: Thailand, Surat Thani, Ko Samui, Bo Phut, Ban Bo Phut, 20 m alt., 3 Jan. 2021, Leeratiwong 21-1634 (holotype PSU!; isotypes BKF!, KKU!). Figs. 1–2. 

Diagnosis.— Alysicarpus littoralis superficially resembles A. vaginalis in its herbaceous habit, unifoliolate leaves, pseudoracemose inflorescence, valvate calyx and erect loment pods (Fig. 3). However, A. littoralis is distinguishable by longer petiolules (1–1.5 mm long vs ca. 0.3 mm long in A. vaginalis), longer inflorescence internodes (8–12 mm long and lax-flowered vs 2–5 mm long and compact-flowered), longer calyx lobes (3–5 mm long vs 2.3–3 mm long), two-tone-coloured corolla (orangish-yellow standard but pink wings vs monotone-coloured-pink to purple in all petals) and moniliform pods with barrel shaped articles at maturity (vs terete pods with cylindrical articles).

Etymology.— The specific epithet refers to its habitat which can be found in coastal areas.

Vernacular.— Thua lisong na samui (ถั่วลิสงนาสมุย). 

Jiratthi Satthaphorn and Charan Leeratiwong. 2024. Alysicarpus littoralis, A New Species of Alysicarpus (Fabaceae) from Thailand. THAI JOURNAL OF BOTANY. 16 (1): 41–52.  

 www.QSBG.or.th/journal/showarticle_en.aspx?type=article&id=373

[Ichthyology • 2024] Chaetostoma sacramento • The Ornate Rubbernose Pleco (Siluriformes: Loricariidae: Chaetostoma), A New Species from the Ucayali River Basin, Peru

Chaetostoma sacramento 

 Meza-Vargas, Ramirez & Lujan, 2024 

 

DOI: 10.3897/zse.100.118522

Abstract

A new species in the rubbernose catfish genus Chaetostoma is described from the Aguaytia, Pisqui and Palcazu Rivers, which drain the Pampa de Sacramento Region in the Ucayali River drainage of central Peru. The new species is distinguished from congeners, except C. anomalum, C. branickii, C. dorsale, C. leucomelas, C. microps, C. nudirostre, C. palmeri and C. thomsoni by having distinct, white, variably-shaped spots or vermiculations ½–2× nostril diameter on dark grey to black background on the head (vs. spots absent or black on light-coloured background). The new species is distinguished from C. anomalum, C. branickii, C. dorsale, C. microps, C. nudirostre and C. thomsoni by having highly variable, distinct white spots, vermiculations or bands ½–10× nostril diameter on the body, from C. leucomelas by having dorsal and caudal fin indistinctly and variably-patterned with zero to four bands (vs. dorsal and caudal fin consistently having five or more uniform bands) and from C. palmeri by having two predorsal plates (vs. three), supraoccipital excrescence present (vs. absent) and pelvic-fin insertion slightly posterior to dorsal-fin insertion (vs. pelvic-fin insertion at middle of dorsal-fin base). Species delimitation analyses of the COI and Cytb genes further support the recognition of this new species.

Key Words: Amazon, Andes, Chaetostoma clade, freshwater, molecular, Neotropical, taxonomy

Live holotype of Chaetostoma sacramento MUSM 72045, 65.1 cm, collected from the Yamino River, a tributary of the Aguaytía River. Photos by D. Faustino.

 Chaetostoma sacramento sp. nov.

Chaetostoma sp. nov. Ucayali: Lujan et al. (2015b) [molecular phylogeny].

Diagnosis: Chaetostoma sacramento can be diagnosed from all congeners, except C. anomalum, C. branickii, C. dorsale, C. leucomelas, C. microps, C. nudirostre, C. palmeri and C. thomsoni by having distinct, white, variably-shaped spots or vermiculations ½–2× nostril diameter on grey to brown background on the head (vs. spots absent or black on light-coloured background). Chaetostoma sacramento is distinguished from C. anomalum, C. branickii, C. dorsale, C. nudirostre and C. thomsonii by having highly variable, small to large distinct white spots, vermiculations or bands on the body (vs. spots, vermiculations or bands absent or black on light-coloured background), from C. anomalum by having adipose fin fully formed (vs. rudimentary), from C. dorsale by having uniformly brown adipose fin (vs. adipose fin with black spot), from C. leucomelas by having golden spots across the dorsal fin rays (vs. light bands), from C. microps by having eight branched dorsal-fin rays (vs. nine), from C. nudirostre by having curved cheek odontodes (vs. strait), from C. palmeri by having two predorsal plates (vs. three), excrescence present (vs. absent) and pelvic-fin insertion slightly posterior of dorsal-fin insertion (vs. pelvic-fin insertion at middle of dorsal-fin base).

Etymology: The species epithet sacramento refers to the plain (pampa) in central Peru between the Huallaga and Ucayali Rivers, approximately delimited by the Pisqui River in the north and Palcazu River in the south. Chaetostoma sacramento is currently known exclusively from this region, known as the Pampa de Sacramento, which occupies a valley between Huánuco and Ucayali provinces that is part of the Peruvian subandean belt and surrounds Boqueron del Padre Abad in the Cordillera Azul. The Pampa de Sacramento was first encountered by Europeans on 21 June 1726, by an expedition led by Don Juan Nunez Lobo and was christened Pampa del Sacramento to commemorate the Catholic ceremony of the Corpus Christi. Subsequent Franciscan missionaries highlighted the rich ethnic diversity of this region (IBC 2016). A noun in apposition.

 Vanessa Meza-Vargas, Jorge L. Ramirez and Nathan K. Lujan. 2024. The Ornate Rubbernose Pleco (Siluriformes, Loricariidae, Chaetostoma), A New Species from the Ucayali River Basin, Peru. Zoosystematics and Evolution 100(4): 1387-1400. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.100.118522

[Ichthyology • 2024] Rineloricaria atratoensis & R. giua • Two New Species of Rineloricaria (Siluriformes: Loricariidae) from Trans-Andean Rivers of Colombia, Unveiled through Iterative Taxonomy

Rineloricaria giua

Castellanos-Mejía, Londoño-Burbano, Ochoa, García-Alzate & DoNascimiento, 2024 

DOI: 10.1643/i2023091  

Photographs by José Luis Londoño-López

 Abstract  

Two new species of Rineloricaria are described from the trans-Andean region of Colombia. Rineloricaria atratoensis, new species, is distributed in the Atrato River and is distinguished by the absence of the mid-dorsal plate series and by having three rows of median abdominal plates, first (unbranched) ray of dorsal, pectoral, and pelvic fins extended as a short filament, and breeding males with hypertrophied odontodes on sides of head and dorsum of pectoral fin. Rineloricaria giua, new species, is found in the Magdalena and Ranchería Rivers and is distinguished by absence of mid-dorsal plate series and by having four or five rows of median abdominal plates, four plates along sides of dorsal-fin base, lateral margins of snout straight, and breeding males with hypertrophied odontodes on sides of head and dorsum of pectoral fin. Phylogenetic analyses of COI sequences of species of Rineloricaria from trans-Andean and Central American river basins revealed the different phylogenetic positions of the new species. Likewise, species delimitation analyses corroborated their status as independent lineages. An identification key for the trans-Andean and Central American species of Rineloricaria is provided.

Rineloricaria atratoensis, new species 

Diagnosis.—Rineloricaria atratoensis is distinguished from all trans-Andean and Central American congeners by having the first (unbranched) ray of dorsal, pectoral, and pelvic fins extended as a short filament (vs. coterminous with branched rays in R. altipinnis, R. giua, new species, R. jubata, R. magdalenae, R. rupestris, R. sneiderni, and R. uracantha). Rineloricaria atratoensis can also be distinguished from this group of species (except R. magdalenae) by having a paired deep depression between the nostrils and the ...

Etymology.—The species name atratoensis is in reference to its type locality, the Atrato River.

Paratypes of Rineloricaria giua, CIUA 8370, 79.5 mm SL, female, Tucuy River, Magdalena River basin, La Jagua de Ibirico, Cesar, Colombia, 9°35′13″N, 73°18′34.9″W. (A) Preserved specimen; (B) live specimen.

 Photographs by José Luis Londoño-López, copyright Colección de Ictiología de la Universidad de Antioquia; used with permission. Scale bar 1 cm.

Rineloricaria giua, new species

Diagnosis.—Rineloricaria giua is distinguished from most trans-Andean and Central American congeners (except R. jubata and R. uracantha) by having four or five rows of median abdominal plates (vs. three in R. atratoensis and R. magdalenae, more than six in R. altipinnis, R. rupestris, and R. sneiderni). Rineloricaria giua is also distinguished from this group of species (except R. magdalenae) by having lateral margins of the snout straight (vs. convex in R. altipinnis, R. atratoensis, R. jubata, R. rupestris, R. uracantha, and R. sneiderni). Rineloricaria giua differs from R. atratoensis, R. jubata and R. rupestris by having four plates along sides of dorsal-fin base (vs. five). Also, R. giua is distinguished from R. atratoensis and R. magdalenae by absence of a paired deep depression between the nostrils and the interorbital region (vs. present) and postorbital notch small and shallow (vs. large and deep). The new species is further distinguished from most of its congeners (except R. atratoensis, R. aurata, ...

Etymology.—In honor of the Grupo de Ictiología of Universidad de Antioquia (acronym GIUA). Used as a noun in apposition.

María Camila Castellanos-Mejía, Alejandro Londoño-Burbano, Luz E. Ochoa, Carlos A. García-Alzate and Carlos DoNascimiento. 2024. Two New Species of Rineloricaria (Siluriformes: Loricariidae) from Trans-Andean Rivers of Colombia, Unveiled through Iterative Taxonomy. Ichthyology & Herpetology. 112 (3), 429-443. DOI: doi.org/10.1643/i2023091  

Se describen dos especies nuevas de Rineloricaria de la región transandina de Colombia. Rineloricaria atratoensis, especie nueva, se distribuye en el río Atrato y se distingue por no tener la serie de placas dorsales medias, y por poseer tres series de placas abdominales medias, el primer radio (no ramificado) de las aletas dorsal, pectoral y pélvica extendido como un filamento corto, y machos reproductores con odontodes hipertrofiados en los lados de la cabeza y el dorso de la aleta pectoral. Rineloricaria giua, especie nueva, se encuentra en los ríos Magdalena y Ranchería y se distingue por la ausencia de la serie de placas dorsales medias, y por tener cuatro o cinco series de placas abdominales medias, cuatro placas a los lados de la base de la aleta dorsal, márgenes laterales del hocico rectos y machos reproductores con odontodes hipertrofiados en los lados de la cabeza y el dorso de la aleta pectoral. Los análisis filogenéticos de las secuencias COI de especies de Rineloricaria de las cuencas transandinas y centroamericanas, revelaron la diferente posición filogenética de las especies nuevas. Asimismo, los análisis de delimitación de especies corroboraron su condición de linajes independientes. Se proporciona una clave de identificación para las especies transandinas y centroamericanas de Rineloricaria.

[Ichthyology • 2024] Paranemachilus luegvetensis & P. liui • Two New Species of the Genus Paranemachilus (Cypriniformes: Nemacheilidae) from Guangxi, China

Paranemachilus luegvetensis 
Paranemachilus liui 

Mo, Yang, Li & Du, 2024

DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.100.129520

Abstract

This study describes two new species within the genus Paranemachilus. Paranemachilus luegvetensis sp. nov. and Paranemachilus liui sp. nov. can be distinguished from all recognized congeners by a combination of morphological characteristics and substantial genetic divergences. Paranemachilus luegvetensis sp. nov. is characterized by scaled cheeks; the whole body covered in scales, except for the head; 11–12 branched pectoral fin rays; 4–5 preoperculomandibular canal pores; body depth 13.5%–16.8% of standard length; and preanus length 68.3%–73.9% of standard length. Paranemachilus liui sp. nov. is characterized by scaled cheeks; the whole body covered in scales except for the head; 11–13 branched pectoral fin rays; 11–15 supraorbital canal pores at the base of the anterior nostrils; 7–9 preoperculomandibular canal pores; preanus length 67.4%–74.3% of standard length; snout length 21.4%–28.7% of lateral head length.

Key Words: cave loach, scaled cheeks, taxonomy, Xijiang River

 Paranemachilus luegvetensis sp. nov. holotype [NNNU230611], 41.2 mm standard length
The dorsal (A), lateral (B), and ventral (C) views. D. photo in live.

 Scale bar: 1 cm

 Paranemachilus luegvetensis Mo, Yang, Li & Du, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Comparative data between Paranemachilus luegvetensis sp. nov. and all five known species within the genus Paranemachilus are provided in Table 3. Paranemachilus luegvetensis sp. nov. differs from all other congeneric species of Paranemachilus by cheeks scaled (vs. scaleless in P. chongzuo, P. pingguoensis, and P. zhengbaoshani), 11–12 branched pectoral fin rays (vs. 10 in P. chongzuo), 4–5 preoperculomandibular canal pores (vs. zero in P. chongzuo, 11–12 in P. pingguoensis and P. zhengbaoshani, 10 in P. genilepis, and 10–11 in P. jinxiensis), body depth 13.5%–16.8% of standard length (vs. greater than 18% in P. jinxiensis and P. pingguoensis), and preanus length 68.3%–73.9% of standard length (vs. greater than 75.3% in P. chongzuo, P. genilepis, P. jinxiensis, P. pingguoensis, and P. zhengbaoshani).

Etymology: The name luegvetensis originates from the Zhuang language of the Luoyue Ancient Kingdom, pronounced LOKWET. This kingdom, believed to be located in what is now the Wuming District of Nanning City, Guangxi, China, where the type specimens were collected, is considered the cradle of this ancient civilization. The Luoyue Ancient Kingdom was known for its rich cultural contributions, including rice cultivation, cotton textiles, cliff paintings, witchcraft, Longmu rituals, and jade carving. These cultural elements profoundly influenced not only Chinese and Southeast Asian civilizations but also had significant global impacts. We propose the common Chinese name “骆越异条鳅” (Luo Yue Yi Tiao Qiu).

Paranemachilus liui sp. nov. NNNU230710006, holotype, 51.39 mm standard length
A–C. dorsal, lateral, and ventral views. D photo in live taken on 11 June 2023.

Scale bar: 1 cm.

 Paranemachilus liui Mo, Yang, Li & Du, sp. nov.

Diagnosis: Comparative data among Paranemachilus liui sp. nov. and all five known species within the genus Paranemachilus are provided in Table 3. Paranemachilus liui sp. nov. can be distinguished from all other congeneric species of the genus Paranemachilus by cheeks scaled (vs. scaleless in P. chongzuo, P. pingguoensis, and P. zhengbaoshani), 11–13 branched pectoral fin rays (vs. 10 in P. chongzuo), 7–9 preoperculomandibular canal pores (vs. zero in P. chongzuo, 11–12 in P. pingguoensis and P. zhengbaoshani), preanus length 67.4%–74.3% of standard length (vs. greater than 75.3% in P. chongzuo, P. genilepis, P. jinxiensis, P. pingguoensis, and P. zhengbaoshani), snout length 21.4%–28.7% of lateral head length (vs. greater than 30.0% in P. chongzuo, P. genilepis, P. jinxiensis, P. pingguoensis, and P. zhengbaoshani), and 11–15 supraorbital canal pores at base of anterior nostrils (vs. 3 in P. chongzuo, 9 in P. jinxiensis, and 9–10 in P. zhengbaoshani and P. pingguoensis).

Etymology: The new species is named in honor of Zongyuan Liu, a distinguished official, literary author, and thinker. During his tenure in Liuzhou, Liu significantly promoted the economic and cultural landscape of the region, thereby elevating the quality of life for its residents and earning him deep admiration and respect from the local community. We propose the common Chinese name “柳氏异条鳅” (Liu Shi Yi Tiao Qiu).

 Hao-Lin Mo, Jian Yang, Peng Li and Li-Na Du. 2024. Description of Two New Species of the Genus Paranemachilus (Cypriniformes, Nemacheilidae) from Guangxi, China. Zoosystematics and Evolution. 100(4): 1375-1385. DOI: doi.org/10.3897/zse.100.129520

[Botany • 2024] Salvia guidongensis (Lamiaceae) • Unraveling A critical evolutionary link in East Asian Salvia from Central China integrating morphology, phylogeny, and plastid genomics

 Salvia guidongensis C.Z. Huang, Yan.B. Huang, B.J. Ge, & Z.C. Qi, 

in Huang, Qi et Feng. 2024. 

桂东丹参  ||  DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1332443

Introduction: Salvia L., representing the largest genus within the mint family, is noted for its global distribution of approximately 1000 species, with East Asia, and particularly China, recognized as a critical center of diversity for the genus.

Methods: Our research was conducted through extensive fieldwork in Guidong County, Hunan Province, China, where we identified a previously undescribed species of Salvia. The identification process involved detailed morphological observations, phylogenetic analyses, and plastid genomics.

Results: The newly discovered species, Salvia guidongensis, exhibits unique characteristics not commonly observed in the East Asian lineage of Salvia, including dual floral colors within natural populations—either pale purple or pale yellow. Morphologically, while it shares similarities with members of sect. Glutinaria, S. guidongensis is distinct in its floral morphology, stature, and specific foliar traits. Phylogenetic analysis places S. guidongensis in a unique clade within the East Asian lineage of Salvia, suggesting it may serve as an important evolutionary link. Additionally, we explored the plastome features of S. guidongensis, comparing them with those of closely related species.

Discussion: The discovery of S. guidongensis not only entriches the taxonomic tapestry of Salvia but also provides critical insights into the biogeography and evolutionary pathways of the genus in East Asia. By integrating morphological and molecular data, we validate the novel status of S. guidongensis and highlight its significance in bridging taxonomic and evolutionary gaps within Sect. Glutinaria of Salvia.

Keywords: biogeography, East Asia, lamiaceae, plastome, phylogenetic analysis, Sino-Japanese flora, taxonomical link

 Salvia guidongensis C.Z. Huang, Yan.B. Huang, B.J. Ge, & Z.C. Qi, sp. nov.
 (A) Habitat (forest edge, beneath the forest near stream valleys); (B) Flowering plant; (C) Root; (D) Leaf adaxial (upper) surface; (E) Leaf abaxial (lower) surface; (F) Inflorescence (pale purple flowers); (G) Inflorescence (pale yellow flowers); (H) Corolla lateral view; (I) Corolla frontal view; (J) Stamens frontal view; (K) Corolla lateral view (longitudinal section); (L) Nutlets; (M) Corolla lateral view; (N) Corolla frontal view; (O) Stamens frontal view; (P) Calyx lateral view; (Q) Calyx inner surface spread out.

 Salvia guidongensis C.Z. Huang, Yan.B. Huang, B.J. Ge, & Z.C. Qi, sp. nov.  

 Diagnosis: 

Salvia guidongensis is distinguished from other species in sect. Glutinaria by a unique combination of morphological traits:

- Leaves: Ovate to elliptic, markedly longer in both blade and petiole compared to congeners, exhibiting a dark green or yellow-green coloration. Leaf indumentum varies from sparsely villous to glabrous, similar to S. nubicola.

- Floral structures: The corolla is characterized by a narrower angle between the upper and lower lips. The middle lobe of the corolla exhibits a pronounced inward curl. Corolla length is relatively short, comparable to S. nubicola and S. glabrescens, with pedicel length typically shorter than in other species of the section.

- Floral coloration: Exhibits a rare dual floral coloration within natural populations, alternating between pale purple and pale yellow, a distinctive feature within sect. Glutinaria.

- Plant habit: Characterized by a multi-branched upright stem, in contrast to the predominantly unbranched stems of S. glabrescens, S. chanryoenica, and S. nipponica. The plant ranges from 50–88 cm, placing it between the taller S. nubicola and S. glutinosa and the shorter species like S. glabrescens and S. nipponica.

 Etymology: The species is named after the location of its first discovery, Guidong County, where it is currently exclusively distributed, making it an endemic species to this region. The specific epithet “guidongensis” is derived from “Guidong”, emphasizing its unique geographical association. Due to its morphological resemblance to S. nubicola, known in Chinese as ‘云生丹参’ (Yunsheng Danshen), we propose the Chinese name for S. guidongensis as ‘桂东丹参’ (Guidong Danshen).

Yan-Bo Huang, Zhe-Chen Qi and Jie-Ying Feng. 2024. Salvia guidongensis sp. nov.: Unraveling A critical evolutionary link in East Asian Salvia from Central China integrating morphology, phylogeny, and plastid genomics. Front. Plant Sci. 15; DOI: doi.org/10.3389/fpls.2024.1332443

[Mollusca • 2023] Sohtsuia diting • Integrative Taxonomy revealing A Troglobitic New Genus of Diplommatinidae (Gastropoda: Caenogastropoda: Cyclophoroidea) from Jiangxi, China

Sohtsuia Z.-Y. Chen,
Sohtsuia diting Chen, Lyu & Chen, 2023 

DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5231.4.10 

 Researchgate.net/publication/367636325

Abstract

A new subterranean diplommatinid snail is described and illustrated from Jiangxi, China. The species is diagnosed by its cylindrical-fusiform shell and absence of internal columellar lamellae and parietal folds. The morphological and molecular phylogenetic characterization of the new species supports the erection of a new genus, Sohtsuia Z.-Y. Chen, gen. nov. A molecular phylogeny of representative East Asian continental species of Diplommatina Benson, 1949 is provided and the relationships of the new genus are discussed. Sohtsuia diting sp. nov. is described as new species.

Keywords: Gastropoda, China, Diplommatinidae, new genus, new species, systematics, taxonomy 

 

Shell of Sohtsuia diting gen. & sp. nov. Scale bar: 1 mm

Sohtsuia diting sp. nov.  

 

  Type locality (A) and living specimens (b) of Sohtsuia diting gen. & sp. nov.  

Zhe-Yu Chen, Zhi-Tong Lyu and Hui-Ming Chen. 2023. Integrative Taxonomy revealing A Troglobitic New Genus of Diplommatinidae from Jiangxi, China (Gastropoda: Caenogastropoda: Cyclophoroidea). Zootaxa. 5231(4); 491-500. DOI: 10.11646/zootaxa.5231.4.10

  Researchgate.net/publication/367636325_Integrative_taxonomy_revealing_a_troglobitic_new_genus_of_Diplommatinidae_from_Jiangxi_China

[Mollusca • 2023] Parabrachidontes amnicus • A New lineage of Fresh- and Brackish-water Mussels (Bivalvia: Mytilidae) from Southeast Asia

Parabrachidontes amnicus 

K. S. Tan, S. H. M. Tan, Sanpanich, Duangdee & Ambarwati, 2023

DOI: 10.1111/zsc.12585

Abstract

Three species of mussels collected from fresh- and low salinity (10 psu or lower) brackish-water environments in southern Thailand, Singapore, northern Borneo and south Sulawesi formed a new, well-supported and distinct mytilid clade based on molecular phylogeny. All are small (< 30 mm) species with either radially ribbed or smooth shells. Internally, the upper edges of the ascending lamellae of the outer and inner demibranchs are, respectively, fused to the mantle lobes and visceral mass. A new genus Parabrachidontes is proposed to accommodate the three species. Of the species in the new genus, one is described as new (Parabrachidontes amnicus sp. n.), and the other two poorly known species (P. leucostictus and P. cochinensis) are re-described. The Parabrachidontes clade is closely related to Mytella, Perna and Arcuatula. Together, they formed a well-supported clade, most members of which have ctenidial edges attached to the mantle and/or visceral mass. These genera are clearly distinct phylogenetically from two other mytilid clades containing brackish- and fresh-water species with ctenidia free of the mantle: one comprising the genera Limnoperna and Sinomytilus (together constituting the Limnoperninae), and the other Xenostrobus and Vignadula (forming the Xenostrobinae). We therefore suggest the existence of at least three lineages of mytilids living in rivers and estuaries of East Asia and Australasia.

Keywords: Mytiloidea, Pteriomorphia, systematics, taxonomy

Parabrachidontes amnicus sp. n., Khlong Pak Bara, Satun Province, Thailand.
a, b. Holotype, PMBC 30680, SL = 15.2 mm, BET 1 (see Figure 1);
c, d. Paratype, ZRC.MOL 24083, SL = 14.8 mm, BET 2 (see Figure 1);
e, f. Paratype, PMBC 30681, SL = 15.6 mm, BET 3 (see also Table S1).

Parabrachidontes amnicus sp. n.

Koh Siang Tan, Samuel H. M. Tan, Kitithorn Sanpanich, Teerapong Duangdee, Reni Ambarwati. 2023. A New lineage of Fresh- and Brackish-water Mussels (Bivalvia, Mytilidae) from Southeast Asia. Zoologica Scripta. 52(3); 298-313. DOI: doi.org/10.1111/zsc.12585

[PaleoMammalogy • 2024] Miodelphinus miensis • A New platanistoid (Odontoceti: Squalodelphinidae) from the Early Miocene of Japan

Miodelphinus miensis

 Tanaka & Nakagawa, 2024

DOI: 10.1080/14772019.2024.2378783  

Abstract

Extant Ganges and Indus river dolphins are endangered species, but their relatives were more diverse in the past. The family Squalodelphinidae is a group of Miocene relatives of Ganges and Indus river dolphins. Our knowledge of squalodelphinids increased slowly in the nineteenth century and has expanded dramatically since the 2010s. Italy, Switzerland, eastern USA, Argentina, and Peru are fossil localities of named and well-preserved squalodelphinid fossils. Squalodelphinids are also known from New Zealand, Germany and Venezuela. However, only two specimens of this family have been reported from the North Pacific, in Washington State, USA, and Japan. Here, a new fossil dolphin (including the skull, right and left periotics and bullae, malleus, incus, hyoid bones and ribs) from the Haze Formation, Ichishi Group, Early Miocene (18.7–18.5 Ma) of Mie Prefecture, Japan is named as the new genus and species Miodelphinus miensis. Phylogenetic analysis places Miodelphinus miensis among squalodelphinids. The periotic of Miodelphinus miensis shows a large, posteriorly widened, ventrally opening, funnel-like articular depression between the posterior and articular processes of the periotic. Miodelphinus miensis contributes to expanding our knowledge of squalodelphinid diversity. Squalodelphinids were distributed widely not only in the Atlantic but also the South and North Pacific by the Early Miocene. This suggests that the family had a chronologically deeper origin such as the beginning of the Early Miocene or older.  

Keywords: Cetacea, Odontoceti, Burdigalian, epitympanic hiatus, Squalodelphinidae, new genus and species

  Miodelphinus miensis

 

Yoshihiro Tanaka and Ryohei Nakagawa. 2024. A New platanistoid (Odontoceti: Squalodelphinidae) from the Early Miocene of Japan. Journal of Systematic Palaeontology. 22(1); 2378783. DOI: doi.org/10.1080/14772019.2024.2378783  

  www.bunka.pref.mie.lg.jp/MieMu/m0062500408.htm

  www.city.sapporo.jp/museum/curator/documents/gakugeiinirukakenkyuteisei.pdf

[Botany • 2024] Typhonium fornicatum • A New Species from Bueng Kan Province, Northeastern Thailand [Studies on Typhonium (Araceae) of Thailand II]

Typhonium fornicatum P.Saensouk, K.Z.Hein & Saensouk,  

in P. Saensouk, S. Saensouk, Hein, Boonma, Sengthong, Rakarcha et Warseno, 2024.

 taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2027

  facebook.com/TaiwaniaOffice

Abstract

Typhonium fornicatum from Bueng Kan Province (Northeastern Thailand) is described and illustrated as a species new to science. Detailed description, color plates, discussion of similar taxa, phenology, distribution, and conservation status assessment are provided.

Keyword: Aroideae, Areae, Indochina, plant taxonomy, Typhonium circinnatum, Typhonium khonkaenense

Typhonium fornicatum sp. nov.
A. Excavated flowering and fruiting plant, B. Hastate leaf (left showing adaxial surface; right showing abaxial surface), C. Narrowly ovate leaf (left showing adaxial surface; right showing abaxial surface), D. Front view of inflorescence, E. Side view of inflorescence, F. Spadix at pistillate anthesis, nearside spathe artificially removed, G. Spathe (left showing front view; right showing back view), H. Detail of spadix showing pistillate zone, sterile interstice and staminate zone (nearside spathe artificially removed) & I. Berries.

Scale bars: A.=3 cm, B., C., D., E. & F.=2 cm, G.=1 cm, H. & I.=5mm. 

Photos by: Khant Zaw Hein.

 Detail of spadices showing pistillate zone, sterile interstice and staminate zone (nearside spathe artificially removed).
A. Typhonium fornicatum sp. nov., B. T. khonkaenense & C. T. circinnatum.

Photos by: Khant Zaw Hein (A & B) and Wilbert Hetterscheid (C).

Typhonium fornicatum P.Saensouk, K.Z.Hein & Saensouk, sp. nov. 

Diagnosis: This new species differs from all other Typhonium species by having the fewest staminodes (only three) covering the lower portion of the sterile interstice. Typhonium fornicatum is most similar to T. khonkaenense A. Galloway & Charoenwong (Galloway, 2015) (Fig. 2B), but can be readily distinguished by its fornicate spathe limb (vs. recurved spathe limb), much shorter spadix (ca. 7 cm vs. ca. 15 cm), fewer staminodes on the lower portion of the sterile interstice (3 vs. 8–10), and a spreading-declinate appendix (vs. erect appendix).

Etymology: The specific epithet is derived from the Latin "fornicatus" (arched), referring to the shape of the spathe limb.

Typhonium fornicatum sp. nov. Plants in habitat.

Photo by: Khant Zaw Hein.

Piyaporn Saensouk, Surapon Saensouk, Khant Zaw Hein, Thawatphong Boonma, Anousone Sengthong, Sarayut Rakarcha and Tri Warseno. 2024. Studies on Typhonium (Araceae) of Thailand II: Typhonium fornicatum, A New Species from Bueng Kan Province, Northeastern Thailand. Taiwania. 69(4); 487-490. DOI: 10.6165/tai.2024.69.487  taiwania.ntu.edu.tw/abstract/2027

  facebook.com/TaiwaniaOffice/posts/939512304866128

[Herpetology • 2024] Boulenophrys lichun • A New Boulenophrys Species (Anura: Megophryidae) from the coastal hills of eastern Fujian Province, China

Boulenophrys lichun 

Lin, Chen, Li, Peng, Zeng & Wang, 2024 

 

Lichun Horned Toad | 立春角蟾  ||  DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.1216.130017

Abstract

A new species of the genus Boulenophrys is described from the coastal hills of eastern Fujian Province, China. The new taxon can be distinguished from all recognized congeners by a combination of discrete morphological character state differences and genetic divergences in the combined mitochondrial 16S + CO1 genes. We also provide a map showing the distribution pattern of Boulenophrys species in Fujian and a provincial-specific key, which will aid their conservation by helping the local authorities accurately identify species during field identifications and data collection efforts.

Key words: Boulenophrys lichun sp. nov., conservation actions, distribution pattern, diversity, Horned Toads, identification, new species, provincial key, taxonomy

Boulenophrys lichun sp. nov. in life
The male holotype (GEP a214, A–C) and the female paratype (GEP a215, D–F)  

 Boulenophrys lichun sp. nov.

Lichun Horned Toad (in English) 

 lì chūn jiǎo chán (立春角蟾 in Chinese)

Diagnosis: (1) small size (SVL 33.5–37.0 mm in five adult males, SVL 47.1 mm in a single adult female); (2) canthus rostralis well developed, tongue not notched posteriorly; (3) tympanum distinct; (4) vomerine ridges and vomerine teeth present; (5) dorsal skin rough and highly granular, discontinuous X-shaped ridge on center of dorsum, discontinuous dorsolateral ridges present, sparse large tubercles on flanks, dorsal limbs with discontinuous transverse ridges and tubercles, ventral skin with dense raised tubercles; (6) outer margin of upper eyelid with a small horn-like prominent tubercle, supratympanic fold distinct and narrow, curving posteroventrally to above arm; (7) two metacarpal tubercles distinct, inner one observably enlarged; relative finger lengths I < II < IV < III; distinct subarticular tubercle at base of each finger; (8) heels not meeting when hindlimbs folded; tibio-tarsal articulation reaching shoulder to posterior corner of eye; (9) toes without webbing and lateral fringes, inner metatarsal tubercle long ovoid, outer one absent, relative toe length I < II < V < III < IV; (10) dorsal surface yellowish-brown with irregular dark-brown patches, and dark-brown triangular marking between eyes, dorsal limbs and digits light brown with dark-brown transverse bands; and (11) dense nuptial spines on dorsal bases of fingers I and II in breeding adult males, subgular vocal sac present in males.

Etymology: The specific name lichun is derived from Chinese Pinyin Lì Chūn, i.e. 立春 in Chinese, which means the beginning of spring, the first of the 24 solar terms (24节气) of China. The specific name refers to the breeding season of the new species which begins around this period. The song of the new species heralds the spring of a year. The type specimens of the new species were also collected on “Lichun” of the Year 2024.

 Shi-Shi Lin, Hong-Hui Chen, Yuan-Hang Li, Zhao-Ning Peng, Zhao-Chi Zeng and Jian Wang. 2024. A New Boulenophrys Species (Anura, Megophryidae) from the coastal hills of eastern Fujian Province, China. ZooKeys. 1216: 1-15. DOI doi.org/10.3897/zookeys.1216.130017